>Why is it said, then, that Vishnu only has 10 avataras. What distinguishes them
>from other incarnations (like Balrama, or Lakshmana??)??
>
>-- Krishna
Balarama and Lakshmana are incarnations of Aadhisesha, the 5 headed snake god.
Sri Ramanuja is also said to be the incarnation of Aadhisesha.
-Venkatesh